You are a provider working in an organization that specializes in trauma treatment. You have been working 10-12 hour days, taking work home with you, and spending very little time with family and friends due to the demands of your position. One afternoon a client walks into your office and begins to explain their current situation. You notice that you do not have an empathetic response to this client, feel annoyed by their narrative, and are zoning in and out as the person is discussing their trauma.

 

Is it ethical for you to see this person or any other? Why or why not? What would you do?

No, In my opinion it is not ethical to attend a patient if I cannot attend there needs and deliver quality services. I might ruin the chance of that person seeking help, although if I am pretty sure it is something particular only with that particular patient, I will refer him to someone I trust and politely convey the reasons for my referral.

If my self introspection tells me that it is because of my situation, tiredness or lack of sleep that I cannot attend any other patient I will simply ask them to come to a given next appointment, conveying why it is not possible for me to serve them at the moment.

This is very important because therapists make lasting impact on a patient's life, if you appear harsh or cold rather than unconditionally accepting, the client would never be able to establish a strong therapeutic relationship with me, and the chances of progress will be reduced.